Fall comes to life for visitors of Grants Pass thanks to the beauty and bounty found in every direction. The fertile soil of this region has sprouted countless vineyards, lavender fields, fruit orchards, dairies, and vegetable farms. Along with them comes hands-on experiences for guests, like exploring a working farm or jumping on the Uncorked Barrel Tour. Of course, Harvest season isn’t complete without a visit to Fort Vannoy Farms, where kids and adults a like delight in a spectacular, 12-foot-high corn maze and 8 acres of pumpkins ready for the picking.

Outdoor adventure is always within reach in Grants Pass. This destination is famous for its rivers—the Rogue, the Applegate, and the Illinois—which provide a playground for jet boats, world-class whitewater rafting, and fishing. Land lovers will find no shortage of incredible biking and hiking trails, zip lines, camping opportunities, and even treehouses.

As the ideal Southern Oregon basecamp, the town of Grants Pass is a hub for any fall activity. This welcoming community is packed with restaurants and shops, tasting rooms and breweries, lively events, and yes, even history. Warm up with one of Grants Pass’ local roasters like the Original Dutch Bros. Cafe (the one that started it all!), Wheelhouse Coffee, Millers Coffee House, and Rogue Roasters. Or if fall cocktails are in order, look no further than the signature creations from Sundance Distilling and Steam Distillery.

Grants Pass also boasts a burgeoning art scene which is on display every October at the Annual Art Along the Rogue street chalk art festival. Plus, enjoy a public art and mural walk downtown among the fall colors. Fancy yourself an artist? Be sure to visit the rotating exhibits at the Grants Pass Museum of Art or blow your own Christmas ornament at the Glass Forge glass-blowing studio.

As fall yields to the holiday season, the historic downtown lights up accordingly. Walk amongst life-size nutcrackers and holiday story boards, take in the annual Christmas tree lighting, and check off your holiday gift list with tax-free shopping. Cap it all off with a fabulous (and well-earned) meal at one of Grants Pass’ many hotspots like The Bohemian, Horny Goat, Twisted Cork, and Food Studio.

Of course, no trip to Grants Pass is complete without a visit to the legendary Rogue Creamery Dairy. Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the making of their award-winning Rogue Creamery Blue Cheese where the cows are trained to milk themselves. Rest assured, cheese samples are always available.

From festive experiences and adventures in the wild to the warm hospitality of a welcoming town one thing is perfectly clear—there’s always more to discover in Grants Pass.

The post Sip, Savor, and Celebrate Harvest in Grants Pass appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

When the weather starts to cool, slowly and mildly as it’s known to do in South Louisiana, the lucky locals of Baton Rouge look forward to what comes next: gumbo season. While there’s no “official” credence, fall and early winter impart an undeniable craving for the rich and hearty roux-based stew called gumbo. Crab, shrimp, smoked sausage, chicken, okra—the ingredients vary greatly by chef, but nearly every Baton Rouge restaurant serving Creole and Cajun classics will have it on the menu. More importantly, it’s going to be good.

So what happens when the gumbo’s gone? When you’ve reached the bottom of the bowl, ordered a second for the table and are ready to explore? Spend a weekend in Louisiana’s historic Capital City and you’ll learn that when it comes to Southern traditions, there’s plenty to go around.

Tailgating and gumbo go together like football and marching bands, so an LSU or Southern University game day is an electrifying first impression of the city this time of year. If football isn’t your cup of tea? Try a different spirit. Head down town where a variety of cocktail bars, breweries and distilleries are all with in walking distance of hotels, museums and more. Oxbow Rum Distillery has become a fan favorite for its tours and tastings of premium rum made from Louisiana sugar cane, grown along the bends of the Mississippi River. After you sip your spirits beneath the twinkling lights of the outdoor tasting room, take a stroll down to the Mighty Mississippi herself and watch the sunset over a glistening horizon.

Once you’ve had your fill of flavor, the music and art scene in Baton Rouge is not to be missed. National headliners and local talent bring old and new sounds of folk, funk, blues, rock and country to venues across the city, while incredible art can be found just about anywhere—from festival grounds and city sidewalks, to the Baton Rouge Gallery and seasonal events like White Light Night and Sundays in the Park.

When it’s all said and done, and you’ve been enchanted by the slow, sweet serenade of Southern hospitality, it’s only fitting that you bookend your stay with a heart-warming crescendo of local flavor. Frank’s Restaurant, known for “the best homemade biscuits in the world” is one of the best-kept secrets for breakfast. Sharing the category with other greats like Louie’s and Dearman’s, all three have been serving the city for over half a century.

Just like a gumbo, time spent in Baton Rouge is a blend of all things good, one serendipitous moment after the next. Whether it’s the food, music, sports or history that brings you here, the easiest way to plan your trip is visitbatonrouge.com. The rest is gumbo and gravy. Take it easy and enjoy.

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